Last revised: May 18, 2013

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-- 2013 --

SAMP, Earl, 82, - of Cape Coral, Florida passed away on April 17, 2013.  

Earl is survived by his wife Doris Samp.

No services are planned and cremation will take place. Other information will be posted here when available.
 

JOHNSON, Kenneth W., 54, - of Plainfield, IL, passed away on March 17, 2013. He was born on October 16, 1958.

He is Survived by his wife Susan (Knieps), sons: Alex, Max, and Christopher; daughters: Hanna and Elaina. He was preceded in death by his first wife. Her name was Gregg (Gullickson) Johnson, who had a child from a previous marriage.

Ken worked in the Southwest area at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora, IL.

Memorials may be made, in Ken's memory to: Peace Memorial Church, United Church of Christ; 10300 W. 131st Street; Palos Park, IL. 60464.
 

WHITE, Robert J. Bob 'Whizzer', 78, - of Montgomery, IL passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2013, at Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora, IL.

Bob was born on September 16, 1934 in Garden City, Michigan.

He served his country honorably with the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. Bob was an Air Traffic Controller at Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora since 1976.

He loved the outdoors: hunting and fishing, and their back porch was stuffed with salmon, rainbow trout, lake trout, brown trout, crappie, bluegill, and deer antlers.His life-long hobby turned into his favored fishing charter business on Lake Michigan: "King Fisherman". He became a charter captain in 1980 and retired 27 years later from his Kingfisherman charter at Diversey Harbor.

Bob and Stephanie traveled for 6 months last  year in a motor home with 2 months in Alaska where he loved to fish. They were also planning a trip to Louisiana and a summer trip to Maine with a stop at a Tigers game at Yankee Stadium.

Bob grew up in Detroit and was a life-long supporter of Motor City sports teams. Bob and Stephanie collected baseball stadiums on their travels, trying to see Tigers games at away stadiums.

He was a member of the Montgomery Memorial VFW Post, Yorkville American Legion Post and the Chicago Sport-fishing Association.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years: Stephanie, three daughters: Caroline (Richard) Calvin of Seneca, IL; Mary Maher of Montgomery, IL; Catie (Jeff) Harrison of Naperville, IL; his son Mark (Denise) White of North Bend, WA; five grandchildren: Malia Cole, Alex and Sam White, kathryn and Hannah Maher; two great-grandchildren: Jaden and Ryah Boudreau.

He was preceded in death by a daughter: Johanna White and grandson Ryan Boudreau.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday March 22,2013 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory; 1801 Douglas Rd.; Oswego, IL.

Memorials may be directed to Honor Flight Chicago, 938 W. Montana St.; Chicago, IL 60614.

 

ESPINOSA, Albert, 78, - passed away on February 28, 2013, at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet, IL.

He was born April 22, 1934 in Kansas City, MO, and attended North East High School in Kansas City.

Al served in the U.S. Air Force for four years, and was a Com Tech at Chicago Air Traffic Control Center in Aurora, IL for over 40 years, where he was still employed.

He was a member of Holy Angels Church. Al loved sports including tennis, golf and fishing.

Survivors include his wife of over 52 years: Karen R. Espinosa; Son, Chris (Joann) Espinosa; daughter: Stacey K. Espinosa; grandson: Andrew Espinosa.


 

ZINN, Willis Albert Jr, 83, - passed away on January 14, 2013, at Homestead Hospital in Homestead, Florida. He was born on January 28, 1929 in Amsterdam, Missouri, and made his home in Hume, Missouri.

Willis is survived by his wife, Laura Jean Zinn of Hume, Missouri; 3 daughters: Cathy Thurow and husband Larry of Monticello, Illinois; Pamela "Pam" Yarick and husband Meredith of Hume, MO; and Karen McGuire and husband Tom of Bloomington, IL; 6 grandchildren: Heather Kibbler and husband Sam; Ian Thurow, Kimberly Yarick, Matthew Yarick, Brooke McClure and Bill McClure and many nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces.

A Memorial Service is planned for Friday January 25, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. in Hume, MO at the Hume Methodist Church with Kay Zimmer officiating.

Visitation will be Thursday evening (1/24/13) from 5-7 PM at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660) 679-6555. in Butler, Missouri. Burial in Ft. Scott National Cemetery, Ft. Scott, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rich Hill American Legion; Hume Methodist Church or the National Rifle Association.
 


-- 2012 --

THIEM, Alan Edward, 75, - passed away on January 21, 2012, of Cannon Falls, Minnesota at Angels Care Center.

Al was born on July 16, 1936 in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in Alpena, MI and graduated from Alpena High School in 1954. After graduation, he served four years in the United States Air Force.

He married Joanne Lucas in Wayne, MI on May 5, 1962, and they lived in Michigan, Illinois and Minnesota for a span of almost 25 years while he was an Air Traffic Controller. He worked at Detroit ARTCC until it closed and then transferred to Chicago ARTCC. He transferred to Minneapolis ARTCC when they took the DSM/OMA airspace.

He returned to Michigan for 10 years, then moved back to Minnesota where he was employed in the US Postal service, until he retired in 2004.

Alan was a member of St. Ansgar's Lutheran Church, where he served on the Property Committee and assisted in ushering on a regular basis. He was a volunteer with the Respite Care and Senior Companion Program at the Shepherd's Center of Cannon Valley, MN.

Al enjoyed building and fabricating wood splitters, working in his shop, gardening and any time spent on his tractor. He also loved hunting, fishing and camping with his family.

After retirement, Al and Joanne enjoyed traveling and spent several Winters in Arizona and Texas.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Joanne; son, John; grandchildren: Joseph (Brook Pommerening), Bradey, Tyler and Courtney Thiem; great-grandchildren: Lila Marie Neufeld; Hannah, Gavin and Mason Thiem.

He was preceded in death by son, Tom.

Interment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minnesota at a later time.
 

LEGAN, Kenneth, 75, - passed away on Monday (d. November 19, 2012).at his home in Shabbona, Ilinois.

Ken was in the U.S. Marines in California, lived in Minnesota and was a firefighter in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

He worked for the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller/Supervisor, in the SW area, at Chicago ARTCC in Aurora, IL.  

Ken was a cancer survivor of 13 years and his health deteriorated after a bad fall earlier this year. He is survived by his first wife, Lola, preceded in death by his second wife, Mary, lost his two siblings: John and Anita; and is survived by his children: Diana (Legan) Miller (active at ZAU in SW area), Christopher and Kenneth along with their families. Grandsons: Richard and James; and son-in-law Peter Miller (ret. N, NE, East Controller @ ZAU).
 

GROSS, Robert, 71, - passed away on Saturday (d. October 27, 2012).at his home in Deer River, MN.

Bob was born on December 23, 1940 in Cloquet, MN.

He retired as an Air Traffic Controller in 1991, after 26 years of service. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War.

Robert enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and hockey.

He is survived by his children: son Lance (Dolly) of Kenosha, WI, and daughter Jackie (David Kangas) Torre of Barnum; grandchildren: Cheryl, Chrissy, Shayne and Whitney; 4 great-grandsons; sister Virginia Lins; cousin and godmother, Anna Belle and the Schul family and Bop's faithful companion Sarah.

A Memorial Service was held on November 1, 2012 in the Handevidt Funeral Home in Cloquet, MN.
 

GARBE, Sharon K. (Walters) , 72, - of Mendota, IL passed away on Saturday (d. September 29, 2012) in Aurora surrounded by family. She was born November 7, 1939.

She married Phillip C. Garbe in December of 1989, mastered being a home-maker and joined the workforce, as a waitress, school bus driver, and dispatcher for the Kane County Sheriff's office.

Sharon retired from the FAA Air Traffic Control Center in Aurora after 19 years of service.

She is survived by her husband, Phillip; two daughters: Christina (Daniel) Clampitt and Diana (David) Garbe; four sons: William Mingus, Brian (Stacy) Mingus, Barry (Jeannette) Mingus and Michael Garbe; ten grandchildren; three great-grandsons; one sister: Linday Clay, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 4, 2012 at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk, IL. Burial will follow in Troy Grove Cemetery in Troy Grove.

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 3, 2012 at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk.

Memorials may be directed to Tails Animal Shelter in Dekalb, IL.
 

YOUNG, Donnie W., 75, - passed away on Tuesday (d. September 18, 2012).at his home with his family by his side. Don was born on September 8, 1937.

Don worked as an Air Traffic Controller at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora, IL.

He is survived by his wife Terry; brothers: Billy and Bobby Young; son: Jeff Young (wife, Sherrill); daughter: Kimbre LaBlonde; step-son Matthew Chrisman (wife, Angie); step-daughter: Stacy Bell; grandchildren: Jennifer Driggs (husband Dan), Matthew Young, Paige and Pheobe LaBlonde; step-grandchildren: Luke and Sadie Chrisman, Matthew and Andy Bell; and great-granddaughter: Evalyn Driggs.

A celebration of life was held at Don's home in Springfield, Missouri on Saturday, September 22, 1912.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Cancer Research Foundation.
 

FOSSEL, Ronald G. "Ron", 78, - of Batavia, Illinois passed away Sunday (September 16, 2012), at Delnor-Community Hospital in Geneva, IL. He was born April 8, 1934 in Chicago.

Ron proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, stationed aboard the icebreaker U.S.S. Atka.

He worked for the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller for 30 years. He was also the owner of Alison's Bar and Restaurant in Batavia for 18 years.

He was past commander of the American Legion in Geneva, IL and an active member of the Batavia Moose Lodge.

He is survived by his significant other, Dee J. Foster of Batavia; two daughters: Mary Ornstein of Libertyville, IL and Heidi (Michael) Murphy of San Francisco, CA; five grandchildren: Rebecca, Grant, and Gilbert Ornstein and Ashley and Patrick Murphy; two sisters: Barbara (Bob) Gurski of North Riverside, IL and Karen (Gene) Snyder of Oregon and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his ex-wife, Nancy Fossel, and a son-in-law, Lee Ornstein.

Interment in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ron may be directed to the American Cancer Society; 143 First Street; Batavia, IL 60510.
 

RIDLEY, Frederick "Fred", 77- of Cape Coral, Florida passed away on Saturday (d. September 1, 2012).

He was born on November 29, 1934 in Marshalltown, Iowa, but grew up in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He was one of seven children. Fred Served in the U.S. Air Force for 4 years and was stationed in a remote part of Alaska.

After his service, Fred began a long career with the FAA at Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora, IL. He retired in 1984 and in 2003 moved to Cape Coral, Florida.

Fred and Annette shared 24 years of marriage. He was a strong person with a great positive attitude and didn't complain when he was diagnosed with cancer. He had a wonderful sense of humor and found something to laugh about every day. Material things were never important, but Fred preferred animals, traveling and relaxing on the lanai.

A private memorial service was held on September 4 at Coral Ridge Mausoleum in Cape Coral, FL.
 

McNALLY Jr., James "Jim" Patrick, 76, - of the Village of Lakewood, IL passed away on Wednesday (d. August 15, 2012) at Centegra Hospital in McHenry

Jim was born on October 10, 1935 in Chicago, and graduated from St. Rita High School in Chicago. He attended Southwestern College in Oklahoma City and finished his education at Oklahoma City University.

He enlisted in the US Air Force in 1953 and trained to become an Air Traffic Controller. He married Barbara Polnaszek in Chicago in 1960.

In 1993, Jim received a Certificate of  Appreciation from the FAA. During his 43 years of service with the FAA, Jim was an Air Traffic Controller, an Air Traffic Control Instructor and was also in management before his retirement in 1994.

He enjoyed bowling, golf and softball and his favorite Chicago teams: The Chicago White Sox, Bears and also Notre Dame football.

Jim is survived by his wife Barbara; children: Linda (Jay) Wozniak, Sharon McNally, James P. McNally III and grandchildren: Taylor Bevis, Lexie Bevis, Morgan, Megan and Jake Wozniak and Taylor McNally and his sister Rita DeVito, and his two dogs: Panda and Gibbs.

Visitation will be from 4-9 p.m., Friday, August 17 at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. , (Rt. 176), Crystal Lake , IL 60014 . A second visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m., August 18, at the funeral home, proceeding to St. Thomas Catholic Church, 451 W. Terra Cotta Ave., (Rt.176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014 for an 11:30 a.m. Mass of the Resurrection.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in memory of James P. McNally may be made to The Block Medical Center for Integrative Cancer Care “Block Research Foundation,” 5230 Old Orchard Road , Skokie , IL 60077 . For information call 847-492-3040 or www.blockmd.com.

 

SNELL, Frank Jr., 85, - of Yellville, Arkansas passed away on Thursday (d. August 9, 2012) at Hospice of the Ozarks Hospice House in Mountain Home, Arkansas. He was born in Laverne, Oklahoma on August 1, 1927, and served his country in the Army in Korea. He worked as an Air Traffic Control Specialist in Air Traffic Control Centers in Detroit, St. Louis, Olathe, Kansas and Chicago ARTCC at Aurora, IL, and retired after 30 years of service.

He is a member of Rea Valley Baptist Church in Flippin, Arkansas.

Frank is survived by his wife, Sonja Snell of Yellville; one son: Frank E. Snell, III of Delton, MI; four daughters: Karen Jones of Yellville; Kathy Bebout of Yellville; Lea Corcoran of Bloomington, IL; and Jana Snell of Yellville; one sister: Betty Snell of Springfield, IL; twenty grandchildren; and twenty-one great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday August 25, 2012 at Rea Valley Baptist Church in Flippin, Arkansas

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Ozarks Hospice House, 774 Long St.; Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653.
 

LINDSAY, Thomas Edward, 79, - (d. June 7, 2012) in Naples, Florida. Formerly of Romeoville, IL, Tom had been a Naples resident since 1986. He worked part-time for McConnell's True Value Hardware in Naples.

He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Tom retired from the Federal Aviation Administration where he worked as a controller and supervisor at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora, IL.

Tom is preceded in death by his devoted wife of 55 years, Mary Ann Lindsay and is survived by children: Mark T. Lindsay of Naples; Kenneth J. (Nancy) Lindsay of Plainfield, IL; David M. (Merry) Lindsay also of Naples and Suzanne (Kenneth) Medford of Charlotte, NC. Also 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Services and burial will take place in Illinois.  July 21, 2012 - 11:00 AM - Resurrection Cemetery; Romeoville, IL. on 135th Street.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Thomas's name may be made to: St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church; 1530 Rattlesnake Hammock Road; Naples, FL 34113.

 

LYNCH, Donn E. 78,- (d. February 28, 2012) passed away in his home in Sycamore, IL. Donn was born on July 28, 1933 in Princeton, IL.

Donn graduated from Aurora University in 1959. He and his wife of 59 years, Fae L. (Chaon), were married in Elburn, IL on December 20, 1952.

Donn had a long-time passion for cars, selling cars since  he was 18, and worked for Lou's Jeep/Eagle for 10 years, and he never missed the Annual Chicago Auto Show.

Donn's career was an Air Traffic Controller for the FAA at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora. He had a Commercial Pilot's license with instructor, instrument and multi-engine ratings, and flew single and twin-engine airplanes across the United States to Europe and Australia.

Donn held the office of President of the Geneva Playmakers and also acted at the Boulder Hill Play House.

He is survived by his wife, Fae Lynch, Sycamore, his children: Mark Lynch of Islip Terrace, NY; Laura (Robert) Guigley of Coopersburg, PA; Elizabeth (Guy) Kolar of Plano, IL; and Jennifer (Patrick) Denlinger of Elburn, IL as well his grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; his sister Karen Rivera of St. Charles, several nieces and nephews and a former foreign exchange student, Jouni (Merja) Silvenoinnen of Joensuu, Finland.                          

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 2, 2012 from 4 PM to 8 PM at the Larson-Nelson Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held on at 10:00 AM Saturday, March 3, 2012 at the Larson-Nelson Funeral Home; 1010 W. South St.; Plano, IL. Interment will follow at the Little Rock Township Cemetery; Plano, IL.

Memorials in Donn's name may be directed to the DeKalb County Hospice; 2727 Sycamore Rd, 1B; DeKalb, IL 60115.

BLASSINGAME, Carl E. Sr. 78, - (d. February 14, 2012) in Central DuPage Hospital in Illinois. Carl was born on June 28, 1933 in Detroit, MI.

In 1946 Carl joined the US Air Force Auxiliary (his first introduction to airplanes - a single-engine plane).

He graduated from Cass Tech High School in 1952, majoring in electrical engineering. He then enlisted in the Air Force (1953-1957).

Carl began his career with the FAA in 1971 and after 39.5 years of civil service, he retired in 1993. Carl was a supervisor in Airways Facilities at Chicago ARTCC in Aurora, IL.

Survivors include his sister, Sylvia Belfon (Frank & family), Valerie Alexander (Gene & Family), Carl Jr. (Marie & family), Michael (Linda and family) Derek (Tracy & family), Joy and family, Craig and family and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren and his cousin Neely and her husband.

Funeral services were held at Bethany United Methodist Church of Fox Valley.

FARRADAY, Stephen R., 76, - (d. January 24, 2012  in KSB Hospital in Dixon, IL. Steve was born on July 2, 1935 in Poughkeepsie, NY. He married Patricia Baumann on April 15, 1961 in St. Peter's Catholic Church; Skokie, IL.

Steve graduated from Joliet Catholic High School; Lewis University and the Air Traffic Control Academy in Oklahoma City, OK. He was employed by the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center for 40 years before retiring in 1998.

Steve and Pat lived in Oregon, IL since 1996 after residing in Aurora for 30 years.

He served his country in the US Navy and was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Oregon; Oregon Knights of Columbus Council 1092; Oregon Lions club and Blackhawk Bicycle and Ski Club.

Steve was an aviation and Lionel train enthusiast, a lifelong avid bicyclist and a lover of the outdoors and birds.

He is survived by his wife: Pat; sons: Michael (Kathe) Farraday of Wheaton and James (Sunna) Farraday of Mt. Prospect; also his daughters: Laura (James) Mont of Flower Mound, TX; Diana (David) Foster of Doyles Town, PA and Mary Beth (Jont) Tyson of Wauwatosa, WI.

Also 12 grandchildren: Megan, Jack, Sarrah, Benjamin, Michael, Collin, William, Julia, Truman, Henry, Mia and Erin; and a brother: Richard Farrday of Naples, FL.

Visitation will be Sunday, January 29, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 110 South Seventh Street, Oregon, IL. Funeral mass will be held at 10:00 AM Monday January 30, 2012 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Oregon, IL with Rev. Joseph Naill, celebrant.

Burial in St. Mary Cemetery, Oregon, IL. A memorial fund has been established.

MURPHY, Betty J. (Nee Czosek), 79, - (d. January 11, 2012  in Woodruff, Wisconsin. Betty was born on March 1, 1932. She was preceded in death by her high school sweetheart, husband and soulmate: Walter P. Murphy, longtime members of Holy Family Catholic Church of Woodruff, WI.

Betty is survived by her daughters: Kathryn (Daniel Baechle) Murphy; Karen (Mark) Niederkorn; Peggy (Dean) Menos; and Eileen Murphy;  and sons: Paul (Lori) Murphy; Timothy (Lisa) Murphy; Michael Murphy, John (Alice) Murphy.

Grandchildren: Dan (Christie) Baechle, Nathan (Lauren) and Emma Niederkorn; Tonia and Kyle Murphy, Ashley (Simeon) Patton, Andrea and Matthew Murphy, Michael (Amber), Megan and Ian Murphy and Augie and Alex Menos.

Great-Grandchildren: Chance and Hallie Brown, Jake, Roman and Olivier Patton and Lillyan, Evelyn and Michael Murphy, Dylan and Alex Balt, as well as many nieces, nephew and many friends.

Betty graduated from Resurrection High School and attended the University of Illinois. In 1969 she was certified as one of the first female Air Traffic Controllers in the United States, and enjoyed a successful career with the FAA at the Chicago Air Traffic Control Center in Aurora, Illinois.

When she retired, she enjoyed life in the Northwoods of Wisconsin where she was an enthusiastic volunteer in her community.

Memorial Visitation will be Thursday, January 19, 2012 (4-9 PM), with a memorial service at 7:00 PM at the Beverly Ridge Funeral Home; 10415 S. Kedzie; Chicago, IL. Friends and family will gather at 11:00 AM Friday January 20, 2012 at St. Casimir Cemetery Interment Chapel; 4401 West 111th Street; Chicago, IL.

A memorial mass will take place on May 26 at holy Family Catholic Church in Woodruff, Wisconsin..

Memorials may be made to the North Lakeland Discovery Center; P.O. Box 237; Manitowish Waters, WI 54545 or Marywood Franciscan Spirituality Center; 3560 US Hwy 51 N; Woodruff, WI 54568.


-- 2011 --

LARSON, Alan Keith, 77 - (d. 16 December  2011) in Texas - Al was born April 8, 1934, in Fargo, North Dakota. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.

He was employed by the FAA as an Air Traffic Control Area Manager at Chicago ARTCC and also Dallas-Fort Worth ARTCC. He retired in Texas.

Al is survived by his loving wife: Lyn; son, Alan Jeffery; daughters: Gina Marie, Hillary Ann, Alaina Lyn; Brother Robert; sister, Karen and grandchildren: Anika Lyn and Zackery Lucas.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Michael Catholic Church in Bedford, Texas; Interment: Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery..

VOLPE, Vince, 73 - (d. 07 November  2011) --  passed away at Provena Mercy Medical Center in Aurora, IL. He was born September 4, 1938 in Chicago.

He is survived by his wife, Geraldine Volpe; his 3 children: Deborah Volpe, Vincent Paul Volpe, and Karen Volpe; his brother: John (Barb) Volpe; 2 sisters: Joy Adams and Rosemary (Gary) Jones; his brother-in-law Tony Stasney; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Sunday, November 13 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM (with a liturgical wake serve at 7:00 PM at the Daleiden Mortuary; 220 N. Lake St.; Aurora (630) 631-5500.   www.daleidenmortuary.com

Funeral Mass will be Monday, November 14 at 10:00 a.m. at Annunciation Church; 1820 church Road; Aurora, and Fr. Patric Gillmeyer will officiate with interment at Marywood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice.

JOWERS, Johnnie Earl, 74 - (d. 13 October  2011) in Thomasville, Alabama. He was known as "Sonny" to close family and friends. Johnnie was born  March 1, 1937 in Sweetwater, Alabama in a close knit family and joined the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church.

He graduated from Marengo High School in 1956 and joined the United States Air Force. After his discharge, he moved to Chicago and married a spirited former cheerleader for his high school football team: Rosa Bell Dixon in 1962. They settled in Aurora, IL, where Johnnie worked for the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller and database administrator. Johnnie and Rosa had four children.

He was always active, and went back to school at Northern Illinois University and earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His first business was an upscale ladies clothing boutique, then a music store, and then he started the first beauty supply store in Aurora that specialized in black hair care products. He also had a beauty shop in this store and two other locations. His next project was to acquire various rental properties in Aurora.

Johnnie was active in the Main Baptist Church and served as a Deacon.  He was also busy in politics, business and community activities. After his divorce he moved to the Washington, D.C. area and joined the Promise Land Baptist church in northwest Wash. D.C. where he also served as a deacon.

He then started teaching in the Prince Georges County school system in the Technical Education Department. While teaching, in 1999, he married librarian and media specialist, Jeanette Gray. In 2005 he joined the Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Fort Washington, Maryland and was an active member until they divorced. He got married again in 2009  to  Dorothy Mae. and retired to Sweetwater, Alabama.

His life was one of constant activity with many hobbies and interests including politics, reading, bowling, baseball, golf and even poker, but his main passion was creating and developing new business ideas.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Mae Jowers; four children (from his first marriage): Mary Jowers (Keevin) Pullen of Aurora, IL; Brenda Diane (George) Lowery of Bolingbrook, IL; Johnnie Earl Jowers, Jr. of Aurora, IL; Lisa (Dave) Weber of Suitland, Maryland and their mother, Rosa Bell Jowers, still living in Aurora; three stepchildren: Janice (Guy) Rand of Mobile, Alabama; Marcella Gould and Ulysses Grant both of Dixons Mills, Alabama, and eight grandchildren; nine step-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.

Services were held at the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Sweetwater, Alabama. Condolences may be sent to the family at: 711 South Edgelawn Drive; Aurora, IL 60506.

SMITH, Colin, 68 - (d. 03 October  2011) - Colin was born March 10, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan. After the Strike he came back to Michigan and settled in a small town (Lewiston, MI) East of Gaylord, where he worked on garages and installation of doors and lifters. He seemed to have no remorse about 1981.

A memorial mass was held on October 7, 2011 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Gaylord, MI.

BARTELS, Junior,76 - (d. 22 September 2011) of Genoa, IL, formerly of Plano and Rogers, Ark, passed away at Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, IL.

Born June 12, 1935, in Muscoda, WI, Bartels was a 1954 graduate of Muscoda High School and attended the University of Wisconsin in Plattville for two years.

Junior was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War and served in radio operations. This led to his career as an FAA Air Traffic Controller for 32 years, retiring from Chicago Air Traffic Control Center in 1995.

Junior was married for 21 years to Virginia Morgan until her passing in 1974. He later married Mary Knief of Burlington on October 20, 1978.

Mr. Bartels was a past president of the Plano Jaycee's and past president of the Plano United Community Fund. He was a proud member of the American Legion of Rogers, the VFW Post #8043 of Hampshire and a longtime member of the Loyal Order of Moose, both in Springdale, Ark, and DeKalb, IL.

He is survived by his wife, Mary; daughters: Cheryl Bartels of Oswego and Cathy (Jim) Peterson of Rantoul, IL; two granddaughters: Katie and Carrie Peterson; sisters: Eloise (Lyle) Sieger, Emily Kolman, Margery Mohr, Kathleen (Marvin) Pursell and Susie (Richard) Balousek; and many nieces and nephews.

The wake will be at the Frederick Funeral Home; 284 Park St.; Hampshire, IL 60240, on Monday, September 26 (4-8 p.m.) The funeral will be at the funeral home on Tuesday September 27 at 11:00 a.m.

Burial with Military Honors will be held at the Burlington Township Union Cemetery.

Memorials in his name can be directed to the American Heart Association or the National Kidney Foundation.

RING, Donald Arthur 'Don', 74 - (d. 28 March 2011) at Largo Medical Center in Largo, FL- Don was born August in Chicago, IL. He served his country honorably with the U.S. Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller from 1955 to 1958. After his military service he continued as an Air Traffic Controller for the FAA for 25 years and retired in 1981.

Don was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church in Oswego, IL; also the Turner Club and Irish Club of Aurora, IL.

Don is survived by his wife Patricia (Budny) whom he married on June 3, 1961 in Elmhurst, IL; two daughters: Linda (Scott) Jordan of Bloomington/Normal, IL; Donna (Ronald) Miller of Oswego, IL; five grandchildren: Ronne, Allyson and Joseph 'JD' Miller; Marissa and Teagan Jordan; two sisters: Judith Salutric of Northlake, IL; Jeanne (Michael) Erbach of Schaumburg, IL; two brothers: Thomas (Pauline) Ring of Crystal Laek, IL; James (Shirley) Ring of Huntley, IL and several nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 10:00 AM at St. Anne Catholic Church; 551 Boulder Hill Pass; Oswego, IL.

Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital; 501 St. Jude Street; Memphis, TN 38105.

JOHNSON, Donald, 66 - (d. 28 February 2011) - Don was born August 7, 1944 in Chattanooga, TN to Goodlow and Julia Johnson. He received his education in the Detroit School System, and later joined the US Air Force.

He moved to Aurora where he was employed for 25 years as an Air Traffic Controller with the FAA.

Survived by his wife, Brenda (Griffin) Johnson and his children: Teisha M. Johnson, Lindsey Johnson, Darius Johnson and Raymond (Shonte) Griffin; grandchildren: William and Aaliyah Griffin; his mother Johnnie Johnson; his siblings, Faye Johnson and Demetrius Cates, and a host of other relatives and friends. Interment in Detroit, MI.

DONAHOE, Thomas J., 77 - (d. 14 January 2011) - passed away peacefully in Apple Valley, MN.

Preceded in death by his wife, Lenora, former wife & friend, Collette; parents, Ted & Nora; children: Steven, Julie, and Tom; son-in-law, Larry.

Survived by his wife, Nancy; children: Denise, Tim (PoChu), Scott (Debbie), Lisa, and Sean; 8 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; step-children: Eileen (Ken); Mary (Dave), James (Kate); and 6 step-grandchildren; also by other relatives and friends.

Deep gratitude to Fairview Hospice Care staff, U of M physicians, and friends who have supported Tom and our family. Mass of Christian Burial, 10am Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at Church of the Risen Savior (CR 42) Burnsville. Visitation one hour prior to mass at church. Interment: Ft Snelling.

FAY, Gary F., 62 - (d. 02 January 2011) - born November 4, 1948 in Minneapolis, MN, son of the late Franklin and Patricia Fa, died in Tucson, AZ of ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and FTD. 

Gary graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1970 and served 33 years as an Air Traffic Controller for the FAA. He retired in 2004. He worked at nine different FAA Facilities, including Chicago ARTCC, and served as Air Traffic Manager of Tucson, AZ TRACON for eight years.

Gary loved aviation and was a pilot for 46 years. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Paula Corrette-Fay, and two children: Lindsay and Alex.

A private celebration of Gary's life was held at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Foundation or to the Rocky Mountain Nature Association Land Protection Fund.


-- 2010 --

Veverka, Albert J., 73 - (d. 05 December 2010) -- Passed away at his home of 42 years in Sublette, IL. Born in Chicago to the late John and Sylvia (nee Suchan) Veverka.

Al is survived by his loving wife Elaine (nee Feliksik); sons: Tim (Vicky) and Jeff (Kelle); daughters: Cheryl (Alan) Zawislak and Jennifer (John) Okrzesik; Grandchildren: Eric and Paige Zawislak, John Jr, Elizabeth, David and Michael Okrzesik, Arielle and Aidean Veverka and a brother Philip (Irene) Veverka.

Al was a Navy Veteran and a retired Air Traffic Control at the Chicago Center in Aurora.

Sims, Christos T. Sr. 'Chris', 66 - (d. 06 November 2010) -- Christos T. Sims Sr. Born August 27, 1944 in Chicago , passed away November 6, 2010 at his North Aurora home. 

United States Marine Corps veteran. Former Air Traffic Controller, Loving father of Christos T. Sims Jr., Michael (Randee) Sims and Jennifer (Jay) Lacny. Beloved son of the late Sophia and Harry Sims. Proud grandfather of Andrew, Ryan, Zander and Kaitlyn.

Loving friend of Dorothy Sims. Dear brother of Aris Sims Karagianis and Nick Sims. Loving nephew of Athena Borgia. Fond uncle of George , Lydia and Leland. Fond cousin of Nick.

Committal service and military honors Friday, November 12th directly at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery , 20953 W. Hoff Road , Elwood.

Robinson, Lanson Raymond 'Lance', 73 - (d. 02 November 2010) -- 45 yr. resident of Warrenville. Beloved husband of Gloria. Loving father of Ray (Rose), Robin (Denelle) and the late Rourke. Fond father-in-law of Heather. Cherished grandfather of Michelle, Brittany, Emily, Parker, Sophia, Rourke, and Brady. Dear brother of Wanda (Walt) Thedford and Ramona (Mario) Samala.

Funeral Mass 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Irene Church, 28W441 Warrenville Rd., Warrenville. Please meet at Church. Interment Warrenville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials donation may be made to St. Irene Church or Kiwanis Club of Warrenville, PO Box 14, Warrenville, IL 60555.

Martinson, James E. "Jim", 76 - (d. 14 October 2010) - of Montgomery, IL died peacefully at his residence on Thursday, October 14, 2010 surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 21, 1933 in Harcourt, IA the son of the late Albert and Mabel nee Castner Martinson and his step-mother Marion. Jim graduated from Iowa State with a Bachelors degree in Agriculture.

He then served his country honorably with the US Air Force as a Captain in the Strategic Air Command. After the service he became an air traffic controller for the FAA prior to his first retirement in 1988.

He worked as a consultant for the FAA until his second retirement in 2003. He was a member of the Oswego Presbyterian Church, and volunteered many hours in the past four years as a volunteer at Rush-Copley Medical Center in Aurora, IL.

Jim is survived by his wife Arlyne nee Archer Martinson (Whom he married on July 6, 1957 in Fort Dodge, IA) two daughters Sue Ann (Jim) Peters of Naperville, IL, Sharon (Patrick) Miller of Plainfield, IL, son Steve Martinson of North Aurora, IL; grandchildren Morgan and Lauren Peters; Ashlynn, Martin and Lucas Miller; sister Eloise Locke of Webster City, IA, two brothers Gordon (Eunice) Martinson of Perry, IA, Phillip (Evon) Martinson of Fort Dodge, IA and several nieces and nephews.

Jim came to Chicago ARTCC from the Detroit ARTCC in 1963. He was a team supervisor in the north Wing, and worked for WCG (training contractor) until 2003.Prior to joining the FAA Jim was a B-47 pilot in the Air Force.  He had a cancer (melanoma) in his eye several years ago, went in for some tests not related to his eye and they found liver cancer. Just two weeks and his liver shut down.   

Heffron, Richard "Dick" E., 75 - (d. 22 September 2010) - Janesville, WI

(November 16, 1934 - September 22, 2010)  --  Richard E. "Dick" Heffron, 75, Janesville, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010, at his home with his loving family at his side. He was born on Nov. 16, 1934, in Mifflin, WI, son of the late Ralph and Gladys (Kreps) Heffron. He was united in marriage on June 17, 1962, to Judith Paye in Rockford, IL.

Dick had worked as an Air Traffic Controller in Aurora, IL. He loved to golf and fly his own airplanes. He was a member of the Egypt Shrine in Florida and a 50-year member of the EFW Ellis Lodge in Rockford, IL. He was a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Judie of Janesville; three daughters: Colleen (Richard) Wright of Shakopee, MN, Terry Kling of Galesville, WI, and Darcie Schroeder of St. Charles, IL; two sons, Dale Heffron of Florida and Roger (Catherine) Heffron of Kenosha, WI; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Kathleen Clark of Janesville and Jill (Mitch) Benson of Janesville; and three brothers: Eddie (Sue) Heffron of Brookfield, WI, Dan (Daleen) Heffron of Prairie du Sac, WI, and Gary Heffron of Santa Fe, NM.
 

 

DULIN, Michael Dennis 'Mike', 66 - (d. 28 July 2010) of Panajachel, Guatemala, and Helsinki, Finland from complications of pulmonary fibrosis. Born and raised in Janesville, Wisconsin, he was a 1961 graduate of Janesville H.S.

He was a retired Air Traffic Controller at O'Hare Airport, and the founder and CEO of SharewareJunkies.com, and other related web sites. He also served as the President of the Association of Software Professionals. The ASP Board of Directors voted to include Mike into the ASP Hall of Fame.

An avid cook, if he prepared a meal for you, you remembered it.

Mike is survived by his wife, Aira (Matikainen) and son Patrick, both of Helsinki; daughter Kelly of Chicago, and son Gary (Lynne) of Monmouth, IL; three grandchildren, two nieces, two uncles and many friends around the world.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, donations may be made in his name by WBEZ Radio, Chicago, and the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

Mauntel, Robert Raaf "Bob", 78 - (d. 28 May 2010) - St. Charles, IL
 

Memorial visitation for Robert Raaf "Bob" Mauntel will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday, June 14, at Yurs Funeral Home, 405 E. Main St. (corner of Route 64 and Route 25), St. Charles, followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m.

Born June 21, 1931, in Mendota, Ill., the second son of Harry and Beulah (nee Winsett) Mauntel, he passed away Friday, May 28, 2010. Bob, along with his older brother, Richard, grew up in Mendota, attending grade school and high school there. Although very private about it, he was an accomplished French horn and piano player.

After high school, he attended LaSalle-Peru Junior College for two years, where he played basketball. His junior year he transferred to Illinois State University in Normal, Ill. It was there that he met his wife-to-be, Donna Cable.

Bob enlisted in the Air Force in August 1952. He went through cadet training and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the spring of 1953. He and Donna were married in Dixon, Ill. in June 1953, and lived an Air Force life for the next four years. During that time, a daughter, Kathi, was born to them on a military base in Albuquerque, N.M.

Bob was discharged from the Air Force in 1956, and then enrolled at the University of Illinois, where he received his college degree in business. He became a lifelong Illini fan.

By 1958, Bob was hired by the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller. He received his training in Oklahoma City and at Midway Airport in Chicago. He eventually moved to the new Chicago Air Traffic Control Center in Aurora, Ill., where he worked for over 30 years. 1958 was also a very special year in Bob's life for his son, Tim, was born.

Later in his career, Bob was assigned as a liaison officer for Air Force personnel at Scott Air Force Base in downstate Illinois. Bob loved his career in the field of aviation and was very proud to obtain his private pilot's license in the early 1970s.

Bob and his family settled in St. Charles in 1961. He was very active in helping out with local sports programs, also serving as the president of the Booster Club at St. Charles High School for a time. He was a member of the Geneva United Methodist Church and also spent a part of many Sundays cheering for the Chicago Bears.

He was an avid golfer, and in his retirement enjoyed traveling, cooking, reading the history of World War II, and he and Donna spent several winters on Marco Island, Fla.

Bob was the proud grandfather of Maggie Walsh (nee Rairdon) and Tim Rairdon, both of St. Charles. He and Donna enjoyed taking their grandchildren on several vacations. Most recently, a great-granddaughter, Libby Walsh, came into his life and he absolutely adored her.

Bob is survived by his wife, Donna; his daughter, Kathi (Dennis) O'Brien and son, Tim Mauntel of Chicago; his grandchildren, Maggie (Aaron) Walsh and Tim Rairdon, both of St. Charles; his two stepgrandchildren, Abbey O'Brien of Denver, Colo. and Eian O'Brien of St. Charles; and one great-granddaughter, Libby Walsh.

He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Billie Mauntel of Tucson, Ariz.; two nephews, Rick Mauntel of Phoenix, Ariz. and Mike Mauntel of Joseph, Ore.; and a niece, Jan (Bryan) Guthridge of Phoenix. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CNS Home Health and Hospice, 690 E. North Ave., Carol Stream, IL 60188-2172 or to the charity of your choice

 


 -- 2009 --

Cullerton Jr., Raymond B., 78 - (d. 16 Dec. 2009)
Taylor, Allen E. 'Pappy', 97 -
(d. 19 Dec. 2009)
McMahon, Thomas M., 77 -
(d. 22 Dec. 2009)
Johnson, Russell C., 80 -
(d. 19 Dec. 2009)
"
MOVER" - Vaughn, Donald Lee,
71 - (d. 07 Sept. 2009)
Christianson, Roger L, 84 - 
(d. 03 June 2009)
Graf, Conrad "Connie", 77 - 
(d. 04 May 2009)
Kuebelbeck, Tom, 68 -  (d. 22 April 2009)
Hills, Marvin D. "Doc", 82 - 
(d. 16 March 2009) 
Ciancanelli, Michael S., 78 - (d. 27 February 2009) 

Cullerton Jr., Raymond B., 78 - (d. 16 December 2009)

 Raymond B. Cullerton Jr., 78, formerly of Bloomingdale and Hillside; beloved husband of Rita G., nee Wrede; loving father of Linda Cullerton, Rayetta (Steven J.) McCuiston and Frank (Megan) Cullerton; dear grandfather of Steve and Lindsay McCuiston and Thomas, Robert and John Cullerton; fond son of the late Raymond and Josephine, nee Fletcher, Cullerton; dear brother of Joan Wockner, Janet (Jules) Kerns, Pat Hippert, Mary Lou (Jerry) Vitt, Gloria Cullerton and the late Thomas Cullerton.

Raymond was a retired air traffic controller with 38 years of service, a past Village Clerk of Hillside, and an Air Force Korean War Veteran.

 In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Taylor, Allen E. 'Pappy', 97 - (d. 19 Dec. 2009)

 Allen E. Taylor, 97, one of the pioneers in the American Aviation industry, passed away on December 19, 2009 at Williamsburg Landing in Williamsburg, Virginia. Allen- or "Pappy" as his professional colleagues affectionately called him- enjoyed a career in the airline industry that spanned five decades, from the early 1930's into the mid 1970's.

He was one of the few remaining original members of American Airlines' Three Diamond Society, then American Airways' first group of employees. Mr. Taylor's aviation career path then took him into air traffic control with the Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA), which ultimately became today's Federal Aviation Agency (FAA).

He served as center chief at Chicago's Midway Airport & subsequently chief of the Leesburg Center for both Washington National (now Ronald Reagan International) & Dulles International Airports.

Subsequently, he was the FAA's representative at air shows throughout the Mid-Atlantic states. Two of the holding points over Lake Michigan for aircraft waiting to land in the Chicago area were, in fact, named "Pappy" & "Taylor" by a former flight standards team there.

Mr. Taylor was born in Hazel Dell, Illinois on May 15, 1912. He was a longtime resident of Vienna, Virginia & was actively involved in his community. He was a member of Oakton United Methodist Church & was a valued member of the Vienna (host) Lions Club for 41 years.

Mr. Taylor was preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years, Roberta Caroline Schalk of St. Louis, Missouri, as well as his brother Paul Taylor & his sister Inez Elliott.

He is survived by his son Keith Allen Taylor & his wife Carol, of Williamsburg, Virginia; grandchildren Bradley & Jennifer Taylor of Bowling Green, Kentucky, David & Allison Taylor of Haymarket, Virginia & Bryan Taylor of Arlington, Virginia, as well as great-grandchildren Peyton, Braxton, Parker & Grace.

McMahon, Thomas M., 77 - (d.22 Dec 2009)

Thomas M. McMahon, 77, of Effingham, went to be with the Lord on December 22, 2009 in his home.

Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery in Shumway. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: St. Mary's Catholic Church in Shumway or Lincoln Land Hospice of Sarah Bush. Thomas was born on December 19, 1932 in Mitchell, South Dakota, the son of John F. and Regina E. Reihsen McMahon.

He married Patsy (Pat) Baldwin on April 17, 1956 in Belleville, IL, and she survives. Also surviving are his five daughters, Kathleen (Mike) Shoemaker of Pittsboro, IN, Linda (Chris) Rohl of St. Joseph, IL, Patricia (Rich) Balow, of Park Ridge, IL, Cynthia (Steve) Abelman of Ijamesville, MD, and Mary Theresa (Bruce) Perkins, Athens, IL; 12 grandchildren, Adrienne and Alison Shoemaker, Thomas Rohl, Matthew, Mark, Mary Kate and Martin Balow, Rebecca and Anna Ableman, Seth, Andrew, and Sarah Perkins. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; two older brothers, Philip and John McMahon.

Thomas worked for the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) beginning as an air traffic controller. At retirement he held the position of Chief of the Automation Division for the Great Lakes Region. He retired after 30 years of service on February 12, 1982.

Thomas graduated from Notre Dame High School in Mitchell, South Dakota and attended South Dakota State University where he played college football on scholarship for one season and then withdrew to join the Air Force.

He served in the US Air Force from April 16, 1952 to April 15, 1956 and was a licensed pilot. He graduated from Aurora College, Aurora, IL with a degree in Psychology in May 1976.

Member of: St. Mary's Catholic Church, Shumway, IL, Effingham Knights of Columbus Council #665, NARFE (National Association of Retired Federal Employees) and Cardinal Golf Course. His hobbies included being an avid golfer, fishing and spending time with family and friends. Friends may send condolences to: hallfuneralchapel.com  

Johnson, Russell C., 80 - (d. 19 Dec 2009)

Russell C. Johnson of Oswego, IL peacefully died Saturday, December 19, 2009 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 24, 1929 in Momence, IL the son of the late John E and Lucille A. (nee Haskell) Johnson.
 
Russ Loved the Lord, was a loving, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and a friend to many. He was a faithful member of St. Anne Catholic Church, where he sang in the choir and the Cursillo Movement.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Jacqueline nee Le Beau (whom he married on September 2, 1951 in Momence, IL) two daughters Michelle (John) Conger, Patricia (Frank) Hinman both of CO, three sons Mark (Judith) Johnson, Matthew Johnson both of Oswego, IL, John (Wendy) Johnson of Plano, IL, eighteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Margaret Peerbolte, brother, Robert Johnson, two nephews, Terry Peerbolte and Kent "Jake" Johnson.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, December 22, 2009 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Chapel in the Joachim Center of St Anne Catholic Church, 551 Boulder Hill Pass in Oswego, IL. A liturgical wake service will be conducted during the visitation.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be concelebrated by Rev. David Hankus and Rev Vern Arseneau at St Anne Church on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at 10:00 AM. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at St. Patrick Cemetery in Momence, IL. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to either St Anne Catholic Church or P.A.D.S. or Vitas Hospice in Russ's memory.

Vaughn, Donald Lee "MOVER", 71 - (d. 07 September 2009)

Donald Lee "Mover" Vaughn of Mesa, AZ, formally of Aurora passed away on
Monday September 7, 2009 in Mesa, AZ. Mover was born on July 21, 1938 in
Ipava, IL to Dwight and Martha Vaughn. Mover moved to Aurora where he
worked as an air traffic controller. He had previously worked at the
Peoria Airport in Peoria, Illinois.

After retiring from the FAA he owned and operated the Aurora Athletic Club.
He married Margaret Collier Rogers and they resided in Aurora until they retired
to Mesa Arizona. Mover is survived by his mother, Martha; a special cousin,
Richard Fisher ;and his family, several other cousins; two stepsons, Carey "Gus"
and Scott "Burp" Rogers and their families, and many close friends.

 He was preceded in death by his father, Dwight; his wife, Margaret; and a stepson,
Steven "Porky" Rogers. There will be a celebration of Mover's life on Saturday,
September 12, 2009 at the Aurora Athletic Club beginning at 1 PM
 

Christianson, Roger L., 84 - (d. 03 June 2009)

 LAKE WALES, FL - Mr. Roger L. Christianson, 84, of Lake Wales, Florida, died Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at his home, of respiratory failure.

He was born November 18, 1924 in Gully, Minnesota to Martin and Beda Lindfors Christianson and moved to Lake Wales twenty years ago from LaGrange Park, Illinois. He loved aviation and was a private pilot for many years and retired in 1981 as an Air Route Traffic Controller at Chicago Center in Aurora, Illinois. After High School he farmed in Gully with his father and was employed by Wilson and Company. He then started college at the University of North Dakota and joined U.S. Navy. He served during WW II and the Korean War, stationed in Attu, Alaska, Korea, and Key West, Florida. Roger was a thirty plus year member of the Masonic Lodge #770 in LaGrange and in Lake Wales and member of the American Legion #0603 in Gully for fifty-seven years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Lake Wales.

Survivors include his wife of fifty-two years Janet E. Christianson, sons Robert Lowell Christianson of Crystal, Minnesota and Ronald Lathan Christianson and his wife Julie of Plainfield, Illinois, seven grandchildren: Ryan, Andrew, Kyle, Joshua, Jessica, Amanda, and Samantha, one great grandson Alex, and his sisters Eloise Rosendahl of Petaluma, California, Helen Holm of Anchorage, Alaska, and Mardell Olson and her husband Bert of Pleasantville, New York.
Graveside services will be June 11, 2009 and interment will follow at the Linn-Hebron Cemetery in Hebron, Illinois.

Memorials of remembrance may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice 105 Arneson Avenue, Auburndale, FL 33823.

Graf, Conrad "Connie", 77 - (d. 04 May 2009)

Kuebelbeck, Thomas "Tom", 68 - (d. 22 April 2009)

NAME  Thomas “Tom” A. Kuebelbeck age 68, of  Elburn, passed away at Rush
University Medical Center, Chicago, on Wednesday, April 22, 2009. 

He was born December 18, 1940 in St. Paul, MN, the son of Alfred and Dorothy (Lachowitzer)
Kuebelbeck. 

EDUCATION
Tom grew up in St. Paul and White Bear Lake and attended local schools. 

MILITARY
Shortly after his graduation in 1959, Thomas enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He
faithfully served his country until his honorable discharge on December 12, 1962. 

MARRIAGE & FAMILY    
He returned to civilian life in Chicago where he met the love of his life in February of 1965 and
following a whirlwind courtship, married Raulene Keen in November of that same year. They began
their new life together in Lombard for a time before settling in Elburn in 1972.

OCCUPATION / WORK HISTORY 
Thomas worked for Union Pacific for a time before taking the knowledge and experience he gained in
the Marines to become an Air Traffic Control Supervisor at Chicago Center. He devoted
thirty-five years before his retirement in 1994.Tom came back to the airline industry in 1996 when
he worked as an Air Traffic Manager for United Airlines.  

LIFE NOTES  
Tom was a family man through and through. They were the first on his mind and in his heart in the
morning and they were first when he laid down his head when the day was through. He loved doing
anything and everything with his family including annual vacations on winter break. Tom would drive
the family up to Wisconsin and Upper Peninsula, MI to snowmobile across the wintry landscapes. Summer
days found Tom and his friends on the golf course and the evenings brought late night dips in the
pool where Tom could relax.  When autumn came he could be found with his friends and his dogs
hunting pheasant in South Dakota and when Sunday rolled around, you couldn’t find a bigger
Minnesota Viking fan than Tom. His memory will forever burn bright in the hearts of those who
knew him, but none brighter than those of his family.      

MEMBERSHIPS
A lifetime member, past president and recipient of the Melvin Jones Award, Tom was the
quintessential Elburn Lions Club member. There was never a job that Tom couldn’t do, but if you had
to ask, nothing made him happier that tending the grill. He dedicated thousands of hours to his club
and community and never missed an opportunity to help anyone, anywhere. 

FAMILY MEMBERS
He now leaves his loving wife Raulene, Three children: Robbyn & Gene Streid and their children, Lauryn
and Camryn, of Elburn Todd & Carrie Keubelbeck and their children,
Todd Jr., Blake, and Alexis, of Naperville,  Tamarah & Tim Milroy and their children, Timothy
and Matthew, of Batavia; His mother, Dorothy (Leo) Kurkowski, 
His mother-in-law, Helene Keen, Sister-in-law, Diane Link, 
Two nephews: Bryan and Jason Link and a family of friends. 

PRECEDED  
He now joins his father Alfred and his father-in-law Raymond Keen who preceded him in death.  

MEMORIAL  
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name. Checks may be made to the
Thomas Kuebelbeck Memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL  60119.  Tributes and
memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through his obituary at
www.conleycare.com.   

Hills, Marvin D. "Doc", 82 - (d. 16 March 2009)

Marvin D. "Doc" Hills passed away Monday, March 16, 2009. He was born March 27, 1926, in Dalhart, TX, the son of the late Dan and Leota (McKinley) Hills and stepmother Marie Hills.

Doc and his wife, Ardithanne "Andy" (Tilly) Hills, raised their family in the Detroit and Chicago areas. Doc retired from the Federal Aviation Administration in 1980 after more than 33 years. He and Andy spent their retirement years in New Mexico and Colorado. Doc returned to Aurora after Andy's death in 2003.

Doc is survived by his four children, Jana Sue (Bill) Fitting of North Aurora, Gina (Vince Stricherz) Hills of Seattle; Julie (Bill) Rainen of Prairie Village, KS; and David Hills of Oakland, CA; grandchildren Devin (Marie) Fitting of Lafayette, IN, Brian Fitting of Lafayette, Derek Fitting of Chicago, Sally and Scott Rainen of Prairie Village and Danielle "Dani" (Ben Duke) Hills of Loveland, CO; great-granddaughter Lily Duke of Loveland; and sister Gwen Dallas of Medford, OR.

A celebration of Doc's life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 21, 2009, at The Healy Chapel, 332 W. Downer Pl., Aurora. Visitation will follow until 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be private.

Remembrances may be made to "Doc and Andy's Bench", c/o Development Dept., The Morten Arboretum, 4200 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL, 60532, or a charity of your choice.

Ciancanelli, Michael S. "Mike", 78 - (d. 27 February 2009)

Michael S. Ciancanelli, age 78, passed away February 27, 2009. Michael retired from the F.A.A. after 37 years. Preceded in death by his parents and 5 siblings. Survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; children: Kim (Ron) Cummings, Kevin (Sandra) and Kristi (David) Kunesh; 7 grandchildren: Nicole (Chuck) Saleen, Trisha Cummings, Matthew (Shannon) Cummings, Jeremy Ciancanelli, Michelle Ciancanelli, Michael Kunesh and Alison Kunesh and 6 great-grandchildren: Brenna, Alyssa, Cody, Mason, Jack and Cameron also by sister, Anna Nardoni.

Memorial service will be held Tuesday, March 3, 2009, 7 PM at the White Funeral Home Chapel, 901 3rd Street, Farmington. Friends may call from 3-7 PM. Interment, Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to the Alzheimer's Association.


-- 2008 --

Dolosic, Joyce

At peace on December 16, 2008 at Rosewood Care Center of Joliet.

Born June 6, 1947in Joliet, IL, Joyce attended St. Francis Academy, graduating in 1965. She was a resident of Aurora, IL for the past 30 years.Joyce worked at APSA in Elwood, IL for seven years, and retired from the FAA, Aurora Center in 2002, where she worked as a computer operator for over 29 years. She was an avid reader, enjoying her retirement by attending the gym and yoga classes, and spending time with her many close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Clara Dolosic.

Survived by one sister, Janice Conway; two brothers, Lawrence (Therese) Dolosic and twin brother, John (Kathleen) Dolosic; and several nieces and nephews.

Joyce's family is deeply grateful to the staff of Rosewood Care Center of Joliet, where Joyce received outstanding care and kindness, and Vitas Hospice Care for their support and understanding.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Vitas Hospice Care in Joyce's name would be appreciated. Tezak's

Home to Celebrate Life®

1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL

815-722-0524

www.tezakfuneralhome.com

A memorial service honoring Joyce will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2009 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL, where the family will receive relatives and friends from 10:00am - 11:00am, service starting at 11:00am.

 

Robinson, Bernard L.

Bernard L. Robinson, 85, died Monday, Aug. 11, 2008, in a Salem hospital.

He was the son of Byron Robinson and Estelle Lee. He was a veteran of the
U.S. Navy, having seen action during World War II. After his military service,
he worked for the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller
in Aurora, Ill. After retiring from the FAA, he became an owner/operator of a
McDonald´s restaurant in Paramount, Calif., for 10 years. He was a member
of Cherokee Village Men´s Golf Association and Highland Elks No. 2539.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Natalie Robinson; three sons, Barry L.
Robinson of Tracy, Calif., Terry L. Robinson of Colorado Springs, Colo., and
Timothy J. Robinson of Shreveport, La.; a granddaughter, Kristen Marie
Robinson; a sister, Helen Lee Bates; and several nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Ben Lee; his
stepmother, Catherine Robinson; and two brothers, Richard B. Robinson
and William J. Robinson.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer's of Arkansas.

From the Batesville, Arkansas Daily Guard
Published: Thursday, August 14, 2008

William Dale Hunt    
William Dale Hunt 70, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 1, 2008 at his residence in Batavia. He was born October 17, 1937 in Linton, Indiana, the son of Henry William and Vera Modess (nee Foster) Hunt. He was united in marriage to Eldora Darlene Ankenbauer on August 22, 1958 in Kenmare, North Dakota.

William proudly served his country in Korea with the United States Air Force. After his military service, he moved to Oklahoma City for air traffic control training, which brought him to Illinois for his first duty at Midway Airport. After his service at Midway Airport, he transferred to the Aurora Center. He was a member of the Batavia Moose Lodge #0682. William was an avid hunter and fisherman, as he hunted deer, elk, ducks and geese.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Eldora; his two daughters, Patricia (Jack) Davison of Batavia and Julie (Jami) White of Batavia; four grandchildren, Chris and Nick Davison and Holly and Joseph White; a sister, Peggy Hilterbrand of Linton, IN; several nieces and nephews; and many loving friends that offered so much support.

In addition to his parents, William is preceded in death by a granddaughter, Catherine; and a sister, June Cottier.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 3:00 PM at the Moss Family Funeral Home, 209 South Batavia Ave. (Rt. 31) in Batavia, where visitation will be held at 1:00 PM until the hour of the service. Rev. Darin Fowler of the St. Charles Free Methodist Church will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to VNA Hospice, 400 North Highland Ave., Aurora, IL 60506.

For additional information please contact the Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia at 630-879-7900 or visit us at www.mossfuneral.com.

Published in the Beacon News from 3/2/2008 - 3/13/2008.

Jerry Owen McCurry, 62, of Henderson, NV, died Feb. 15,
2008. He was a retired air traffic controller and served in the U.S.
Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He is survived by his wife,
Hymny P.; sons, Timothy, Jericho and Marc; and daughters, Erin and
Jose. Visitation will be from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, with
services immediately following, both at Palm Mortuary, 7600 S.
Eastern Ave., Henderson.

Frank M. Tindill, 83, of Warrenville, formerly of Glen Ellyn, passed away February 25, 2008, beloved husband of Ruth G.; loving father of Janis (James) Witkins, Terry M. (Kathy) and Kristy (Stephen) Wavra; cherished grandfather of Kelly, Kathleen; and great-grandson, Kain Harris. Memorial visitation Wednesday, 4 p.m. until time of memorial service 8 p.m. at Leonard Memorial Home, Ltd., 3S532 Batavia Road, Warrenville. Please omit flowers. If desired, memorial contributions to donor's choice of charity appreciated.

Funeral information 630-393-9449.

Published in the Chicago Tribune on 3/2/2008

Donald E. Elliott - 86
7/9/1921 - 1/4/2008

Donald E. Elliott, 86, of Wedron, IL formerly of Prudenville, MI passed away, Friday, January 4, 2008 at Community Hospital of Ottawa. He was born July 9, 1921 in Ogden Twp., MI, the son of George and Mabel (Fox) Elliott. He married Marjorie Jane MacGregor on December 27, 1947 in Vanderbilt, MI. He was a member of the Shriners, Masons and a lifetime member of the Eastern Stars in Oswego. He retired from Air National Guard and FAA in 1983.

He is survived by three daughters, MaJoria Huebel of Somonauk, JoAnna (Ed Ryan) Elliott of Wedron and Judy Elliott of Wedron; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; one sister, Sandy (Dave) Feeley and one brother, Jerry Elliott both of Michigan and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and one sister, Beverly.

A Memorial Service will be held at Christler Funeral Home in Houghton Lake, MI in May of 2008. There will be no services locally. Memorials may be directed to the Shriners Hospital for Children 2211 N Oak Park Ave Chicago, IL 60707 For more information or to sign the online guestbook, go to www.TurnerBurkhartFH.com

Burkhart-Eighner Funeral Home
606 E. Arnold Road
Sandwich, IL 60548
815-786-2165

 


-- 2007 --

John Ronald GERMATA, 71 of Hudson, Fla., died August 22, 2007. He is survived by wife, Jacquetta; six children and 12 grandchildren. Dobies Funeral Home Hudson, Fla., (727) 868-4441

John F. Walter, 69 of Oshkosh, died Monday, March 19, 2007 at the Aurora Medical Center.

He was born in Seymour,WI on April 6, 1937 the son of Louis C. and Norma Zeidler Walter. On August 10, 1957 he married Joan Kirby in St. Louis, MO. She preceded him in death on August 31, 1992. On October 29, 2004 he married Donna Martinez in Oshkosh.

John was an air traffic controller for over 25 years. He had served his country in the U.S. Army and in the U.S. Air Force. He was a member of the St. John Ev. Lutheran Church in Oshkosh and had also belonged to the Jaycees, Boy Scouts as a Pack Leader, and he belonged to the Wisconsin Club (a "snowbird" club in Alabama).

He is survived by his wife, Donna Walter of Oshkosh; three sons, John (Lindi) Walter of Bartlett, IL, Thomas (Beth) Walter of Montgomery, IL, and William (Jenny) Walter of Montgomery, IL; four daughters, Karen (Michael) Beach of Montgomery, IL, Donna (Michael) Anderson of Montgomery, IL, Mary (Lowell) Bourland of Florence, AL, and Pamela Walter (Glen Ross Jr.) of Oshkosh; step son, Jeffrey Martinez (Carol Alaniz) of Oshkosh; step daughter, Kelly Martinez of Oshkosh; three brothers, James (Norm) Walter of Coral, MI, Gerald Walter of San Francisco, CA, and Louis (Lola) Walter of Neenah, WI; a sister, Rosemary Counard of Green Bay, WI; twenty four grandchildren, Kristen (Patrick Fulla) Cash, James Cash, Joann (Zac) Buchanan, Timothy Green, Daniel Jacob, Abraham Campos, Anthony Campos, Malissa Salazar, Ashley Salazar, Andre' Salazar, Jason Walter, David Walter, Megan Walter, Kellie Walter, Justine Walter, Jordan Walter, Josh Walter, Alison Ross, Matheau Martinez, Thomas Martinez, Teresa Martinez, Jarod Johnson, Genevieve Johnson, and Gary Anderson; two great grandchildren, Brandon Walter and Annabel Haas; many nieces, nephews and cousins.
 

NOTE: Please send any corrections or additions to Ron Fandrick.

   2007
John Walter.  69            (d. 3/19/2007)
Sam Dimaggio             
(d. 3/15,2007)


Last revised: May 18, 2013

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